Hi there! I’m KENTA, a huge fan of manga! In this article, I’ll dive into the story of Demon Slayer: Mugen Train, focusing on what might have happened if Hashira other than Kyojuro Rengoku had been aboard the train. The Demon Slayer: Mugen Train arc is a crucial episode in which Tanjiro and his comrades grow stronger. At the heart of it is the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku, whose bravery and final stand left a lasting impact on fans. But what if Rengoku hadn’t been the one to die? Could another Hashira have made the ultimate sacrifice in his place? Let’s explore this “what if” scenario!
1. Overview of the Mugen Train Arc and Kyojuro Rengoku’s Role
The Mugen Train Arc was released as a movie and became a huge hit. In this story, the Demon Slayer Corps members, also known as the “Kamaboko Squad” (Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko), face off against demons aboard the Mugen Train. They are accompanied by the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku.
The main antagonist is Enmu, Lower Rank One, who traps the passengers in dreams and tries to destroy their spirit cores from within those dreams. However, thanks to their incredible mental strength and refined techniques, Tanjiro and the others manage to break free and ultimately defeat Enmu.
But then, the climax of the story brings forth an even greater threat: Upper Rank Three, Akaza. Kyojuro Rengoku bravely battles Akaza, holding his ground until the very end, but he is fatally wounded and loses his life.
2. What If Other Hashira Were on the Mugen Train?
If Rengoku hadn’t been there, how would the other Hashira have acted, and what would the outcome have been? Let’s consider how each of them might have handled the situation on the Mugen Train.
2.1 Giyu Tomioka (Water Hashira) Giyu Tomioka, the first Hashira to extend a hand to Tanjiro, is known for his calm demeanor and incredible mental fortitude. However, when it comes to Enmu’s dream manipulation, he may have faced challenges. Giyu has lost precious people in the past, like Sabito and Takane. If they were to reappear in his dreams, it could be hard for him to break free from the illusion.
That said, Giyu’s quiet and emotionless nature might protect him from having his spirit core shattered. In the end, Giyu would likely wake up and rejoin the fight, just as Rengoku did.
2.2 Tengen Uzui (Sound Hashira) Tengen Uzui is a flamboyant Hashira with a unique background as a former ninja. His sharp decision-making and physical prowess would certainly shine aboard the Mugen Train. Moreover, because he enjoys a happy life with his three wives, Enmu’s dream technique might not have much of an effect on him—his real life is already fulfilling, so there would be little reason for him to linger in a dream.
If Tengen were aboard, he would likely take charge of the battlefield with flashy tactics, coordinating the Kamaboko Squad with ease. When it comes to the battle with Akaza, Tengen’s agility and flamboyant fighting style would provide a different approach compared to Rengoku.
2.3 Muichiro Tokito (Mist Hashira) Muichiro Tokito, a prodigy who became a Hashira at the young age of 14, would have been a valuable asset aboard the Mugen Train. His calm and almost emotionless personality might make him resistant to Enmu’s dream manipulation. Muichiro seems like the type who could quickly distinguish between reality and illusion.
If Muichiro were present, he would likely analyze the situation with precision, supporting Tanjiro and the others while efficiently identifying the enemy’s weaknesses. His incredible technique and talent would make the battle aboard the train unfold even more smoothly.
3. How Would the Demons Respond If Multiple Hashira Were Aboard?
Even Kyojuro Rengoku alone was able to push Akaza to his limits, but what if multiple Hashira were aboard the Mugen Train? If Muzan had known about this, he might have sent more than just Upper Rank Three, Akaza, to deal with them.
3.1 The Introduction of Kokushibo (Upper Rank One) Kokushibo, the strongest of all demons, would have been a formidable opponent. If he had been sent to the Mugen Train, even the combined might of the Hashira would struggle to defeat him. Kokushibo demonstrated his overwhelming strength during the final battle, where he fought against multiple Hashira simultaneously and still managed to dominate. His appearance would have made the fight aboard the train much more intense, leading to a longer and more grueling battle.
3.2 The Threat of Doma (Upper Rank Two) Doma, Upper Rank Two, is another incredibly dangerous foe. His ability to manipulate ice and attack large areas would pose a significant threat to both the passengers and the Hashira. If Doma had appeared on the Mugen Train, not only the Hashira but also Tanjiro and his friends would have faced an uphill battle.
4. Who Would Be the Sacrifice?
Kyojuro Rengoku’s death was a heartbreaking moment for fans. But what if other Hashira had been aboard—who would have taken his place as the sacrifice?
4.1 Tengen Uzui’s Self-Sacrifice If Tengen Uzui had been aboard the Mugen Train, he might have sacrificed himself instead of Rengoku. He carries a heavy burden of guilt for the lives he couldn’t save in the past, and his deep respect for Rengoku could have driven him to offer his own life in Rengoku’s place. Tengen demonstrated in the Entertainment District Arc that he was willing to fight in Rengoku’s honor, so it’s easy to imagine him making the ultimate sacrifice to save him.
4.2 Giyu’s Calculated Decision On the other hand, Giyu Tomioka might not have been so quick to sacrifice himself. His calm, rational mind would likely steer him toward making strategic decisions to protect his comrades without losing his own life unnecessarily. However, if one of his comrades were in grave danger, Giyu would undoubtedly risk his life to protect them.
Could Kyojuro Rengoku Have Been Saved?
Kyojuro Rengoku’s death in the Mugen Train Arc was a result of his strong will and self-sacrifice. However, if the other Hashira had been there, his death might have been avoided. Each Hashira possesses unique abilities and backgrounds, which would have altered the course of the battle. The outcome may have been very different, depending on who was aboard. With the strong bonds and immense strength of the Hashira, the battle against the demons could have played out in their favor.
What do you think? Which Hashira would you have liked to see on the Mugen Train, and how do you think the story would have unfolded?